What do I need to get service-connected disability benefits?

Generally, a veteran needs to show that they sustained an injury or contracted a disease during their time in service; that they currently have a disability or disease; and that their current condition is related to their in-service injury or disease.

Am I entitled to service-connected disability even if my injury occurred while I was off duty?

Generally, yes. If you injured your lower back while playing sports while in service, you would be entitled to service-connected disability if your current disability is related to that in-service injury.

Can I do anything if I receive an unfavorable decision from the VA Regional Office?

Yes. A decision from the Regional Office is the first, not the last, decision within the VA system. You have one year from the date of the Regional Office decision to contest the decision with the VA.

How much do I have to pay, and do I have to pay up front?

No one is allowed to charge veterans for assisting with filing an initial claim with the VA. Attorneys charge a contingent fee of 20% of past-due benefits — you only pay if you win.

I already received an unfavorable decision from a BVA Judge — is there anything I can do?

Yes. You can sue the VA in the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. If you win, your attorney may be entitled to fees paid by the VA under the Equal Access to Justice Act.

Do I need a lawyer, or can I represent myself?

There is nothing that prevents you from representing yourself. However, we strongly recommend retaining an experienced lawyer to represent you at every stage.

Your firm is in Florida — I live in another state. Do I need a local lawyer?

No. The VA is a federal agency. The vast majority of BVA hearings are virtual Zoom hearings, allowing us to represent veterans nationwide.

If I am awarded 100% Service Connected Disability, am I still allowed to work?

Yes. Excluding TDIU, there are no rules that prevent a 100% schedular-rated disabled veteran from working part or full time.

How does the VA determine my monthly compensation amount?

The VA calculates your payment based on the degree your disability would impair the average person. The VA uses the Schedule for Rating Disabilities, using multiples of 10 (10%, 20%, 30%, etc.).

⚖

N. Albert Bacharach, Jr. PA

Veterans Disability Law

Free Consultation

Veterans’ Disability • VA & Other Medical Malpractice • Social Security & SSI Disability • State Disability Retirement • Florida Commission on Ethics

4128 NW 13th St., Gainesville, Florida • Phone or Text (352) 378-9859 • Email Prospects@nabjr.com

Contact N. Albert Bacharach, Jr., P.A.

Your first consultation is free, confidential, and without obligation. We represent veterans and disabled Americans across the country from our office in Gainesville, Florida. Call, text, email, or stop by during business hours – we will listen to your situation and give you an honest assessment.

Request a Free Consultation

Tell us a little about your situation and we will get back to you. Fields marked (required) are necessary.

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

How to Reach Us

Phone or Text: (352) 378-9859
Email (new clients): Prospects@nabjr.com
Office: 4128 NW 13th Street, Gainesville, Florida 32609
Hours: Monday through Friday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM Eastern

What to Expect on Your First Call

Most first consultations take thirty minutes or less. We will ask about your service history (if applicable), your medical conditions, your current claim status, and any prior denials. By the end of the call you will have an honest assessment of your options and a clear idea of next steps.

Do I Need to Live in Florida?

No. The Department of Veterans Affairs and the Social Security Administration are federal agencies. We represent clients in every state. Most hearings are now held by video, and we can handle the entire intake and representation remotely.

What Information Should I Gather Before Calling?

Your DD-214 or service records, if you have them
Any prior VA, Social Security, or FRS decisions
A list of your current medical conditions and treating providers
A brief timeline of the condition, any injury, and any prior claims

If you do not have these documents, we will help you obtain them. Do not wait – deadlines in VA, Social Security, and administrative matters are strict, and a missed deadline can permanently forfeit benefits.

Attorney Fees

Our firm handles most veterans and disability matters on a contingency basis – no fee unless we win, and the fee is paid as a percentage of past-due benefits recovered. Fee percentages are set by statute or regulation in VA and Social Security cases. Out-of-pocket costs (medical records, filing fees, mailing) are the client’s responsibility.

Office Location

Our office is located at 4128 NW 13th Street in Gainesville, Florida, a short drive from the Malcom Randall VA Medical Center. Free parking is available on-site. Meetings are by appointment.

Learn More

Free Consultation – No Fee Unless You Win

Phone or Text: (352) 378-9859

Email: Prospects@nabjr.com

Office: 4128 NW 13th Street, Gainesville, Florida 32609

Hours: Mon-Fri, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM